Robert Rex facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Robert Rex
KBE CMG
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|---|---|
| 1st Premier of Niue | |
| In office 19 October 1974 – 12 December 1992 |
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| Governor-General | Dennis Blundell Keith Holyoake David Beattie Paul Reeves |
| Preceded by | Office Established |
| Succeeded by | Young Vivian (Interim) |
| Constituency | Alofi South |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 25 January 1909 Anafonua, Avatele, Niue |
| Died | 12 December 1992 (aged 83) Halamahaga, Alofi South, Niue |
| Political party | Niue People's Action Party |
| Spouses | Tuagatagaloa Patricia, Lady Rex |
Sir Robert Richmond Rex (born January 25, 1909 – died December 12, 1992) was a very important leader for the Pacific island of Niue. He was the first Premier of Niue. A Premier is like a prime minister or a main leader of a country. Sir Robert helped Niue become a self-governing country. This means Niue could make its own rules and decisions. He led Niue for many years, from 1974 until he passed away in 1992.
Early Life and Family in Niue
Robert Rex was born in Niue. His father, Leslie Lucas Richmond Rex, was a European trader. His mother, Fisimonomono Tufaina, was from Avatele Village in Niue.
Later, Robert Rex lived in Alofi, which is the capital city of Niue. He was married to Patricia Rex. She was also a very respected person in Niue.
Robert Rex was the great-uncle of Frank Bunce. Frank Bunce is a famous rugby player.
Leading Niue: His Political Career
Sir Robert Rex became the Premier of Niue on October 19, 1974. This was the day Niue became a self-governing territory. He stayed in this important job until he died in 1992.
He served for 18 years, which makes him Niue's longest-serving Premier. After he passed away, Young Vivian took over for a short time. Then, Frank Lui was elected as the next Premier.
Sir Robert Rex did not really like political parties. However, the Niue People's Action Party supported him after it was formed in 1987. During his time as Premier, he often managed many different government departments. His team included other important Niuean leaders. These included Dr. Enetama Lipitoa, Young Vivian, and Frank Lui. Both Young Vivian and Frank Lui later became Premiers themselves.
Special Awards and Honours
Sir Robert Rex received several special awards for his hard work. These awards came from the Queen of England.
In 1973, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. This award was for his valuable service to the people of Niue. In 1977, he became a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George. This was part of the Queen's Silver Jubilee and Birthday Honours.
In 1984, Sir Robert Rex received a very high honour. He was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire. This meant he was given a knighthood. He was the first person from Niue to receive this special title. After this, people called him "Sir Robert."
